Very nice cars. Same platform as the cougar. The Duratecs are extremely reliable. I think common problems are the fuel pump, the alternator, and the the imrc (intake manifold control runner) being fluttery.
Turborust knows more then I. They're beautiful cars, and they're pretty quick off the bat. There is an aftermarket for them if that's what you're going for as well as brakes(Baer big brake kit) but honestly the all wheel disc is more then I have ever needed for this car.